Former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has delivered a stunning assessment of his old club's current state, suggesting the Spanish giants aren't ready to compete at the highest level in European football.
Spanish Press Reacts to Anfield Demolition
The Spanish media landscape has been dominated by reaction to Real Madrid's comprehensive defeat against Liverpool at Anfield, with Alonso's comments making particular waves across sports publications.
Alonso, now establishing himself as one of Europe's most promising young managers, didn't hold back in his analysis of where Carlo Ancelotti's team currently stands in the continental pecking order.
Bellingham and Vinicius Earn Special Praise
Despite his criticism of the team's overall readiness, Alonso singled out two players for particular admiration. England international Jude Bellingham and Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior received glowing reviews from the Spanish legend.
"When you look at individual talents like Bellingham and Vinicius," Alonso noted, "you see the potential for greatness. But football at this level requires more than just individual brilliance."
Liverpool's Intensity Exposes Madrid Flaws
The match at Anfield saw Liverpool's relentless pressing and attacking fluidity overwhelm Real Madrid, raising serious questions about whether the Spanish champions can genuinely challenge for this season's Champions League trophy.
Alonso's comments reflect growing concerns in Madrid that the team may be undergoing a transitional phase, despite their domestic dominance in recent seasons.
What This Means for Champions League Ambitions
With the group stages progressing, Alonso's verdict serves as both a warning and a challenge to his former club. The assessment from such a respected figure in both Spanish and European football circles carries significant weight.
As one Spanish newspaper put it: "When Xabi Alonso speaks about European football, people listen. And his message about Real Madrid's current state should concern everyone connected with the club."
